Medical dictionary

What are platelet disorders? Platelet disorders are a group of conditions which involve the overproduction or underproduction of platelets in the blood. Platelets are cell fragments which help your blood to clot properly. Having too many platelets can cause abnormal blood clots and possible blockages in your arteries and veins. Having too few platelets can lead to uncontrollable bleeding if

What is being analysed? Platelet function analysis assesses the effectiveness of platelets in forming clots, which is crucial for proper blood clotting and wound healing.   What does the result mean? The result indicates how well the platelets are functioning in the clotting process. It helps to diagnose various bleeding disorders or clotting abnormalities. Why do the analy

What is platelet-rich plasma? Platelet-rich plasma is a blood derivative that stimulates the production of collagen, elastin and epidermal tissue. It is used to achieve firmer, brighter and better-quality skin.   Why is the treatment performed? Platelet-rich plasma is a cosmetic treatment aimed at rejuvenating the skin of the face, particularly the area between the eyebrows, t

What is pleural biopsy? Pleural biopsy is a diagnostic technique in which the pleura, the tissue that lines the inside of the chest, is extracted and analyzed. What happens during a pleural biopsy? There are three types of biopsy depending on the technique used: Needle biopsy: also called thoracentesis, this is the most common technique and involves inserting a special needle in

What is pleural effusion?   Around the lungs, there is a thin membrane called the pleural. Usually, there is a small amount of fluid in this space but if excess fluid builds up, this is known as pleural effusion. It is also referred to as ‘water on the lungs.’ It limits the space the lungs can expand into while breathing in, forcing the patient to take shallow breaths.&nbs

What is analysed in pleural fluid testing? Pleural fluid analysis involves the examination of various components present in the fluid surrounding the lungs and lining the pleural cavity. Key components include cells, proteins, glucose, and other biochemical markers. How are the results interpreted? Interpreting the results of pleural fluid analysis is essential for understanding

What is pleural mesothelioma? Pleural mesothelioma is a rare malignant tumour affecting the pleura, the lining which surrounds each lung and the chest’s internal walls. The main cause of pleural mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos, a mineral which was often used for insulation or roofing. When it is extracted or removed, asbestos releases a fine dust that, if breathed in, can cause se

What is pneumonia? Pneumonia is an acute inflammatory condition of one or both of the lungs caused by infection. It primarily affects the alveoli which are the small air sacs deep in the lungs, where oxygen passes into the bloodstream and carbon dioxide passes out back into the lungs. In people with pneumonia, these air sacs become inflamed and fill with fluid or pus.  What causes

What is pneumothorax?Pneumothorax is the medical term for a collapsed lung. This occurs when air is present in the space between the lungs and the rib cage, which is known as the pleural space. This causes a loss of lung volume, as the pressure that keeps the lungs inflated is disrupted by air accumulating in the pleural space.Air within the pleural space can come from the lung itself, or from out